5 Things you can do for FREE in Mossel Bay
4 min read
Holidays can be expensive, but in Mossel Bay they don’t have to be! While the town has many great activities which one can do on a shoestring budget, here are a few options that are completely free of charge.
1. Hike the St Blaize Trail and visit the Cape St Blaize Cave
The St Blaize area at The Point is perfect for nature lovers, keen hikers, Instagram influencers, and history boffins alike – and it’s all free! The St Blaize Hiking Trail stretches for 13.5 kilometres and can be started from either end. Start at the Dana Bay end or start at the Cape St Blaize Cave. This grotto sits under the St Blaize Lighthouse and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Archaeologists date human inhabitation of this cave back to the Middle Stone Age, but some evidence suggests that the true date stretches even further into the past. From the steps leading up to the cave to the cliffs along the hiking trail, this area is rich with relaxing natural scenes, breathtaking views, and perfect opportunities for pictures and history lessons.
2. Relax on the Beach
This might seem like an obvious one, but going to the beach for the day is an excellent activity for the whole family and can be done without spending a single cent! Simply pre-pack lunch, snacks, and cold drinks and make your way to Santos Beach, which is right on De Bakke Santos’s doorstep. Santos Beach is also an excellent spot to watch the sunset and sunrise, especially in the winter when swimming isn’t always an option. If you are looking for something that will raise the heart rate, be sure to head to the Tidal Pools at the Point where the high tides make for an exhilarating dip in the ocean. The Point is also home to a paddling pool – perfect for families with small children!
3. Explore the flea market, art stores, independent stores, etc.
Mossel Bay is home to many great artists, crafters, bakers, and entrepreneurs. Although you might leave with a lighter purse, there are many great markets and independent stores you can peruse free of charge. The Goods Shed on Bland Street is situated in the centre of town and is open every day. This beloved flea market showcases local arts, crafts, bakes, and jewellery, and is the perfect place if you are looking for a relaxed survey of what Mossel Bay has to offer. Marsh Street is another ideal location if you are looking for a wander around a variety of shops, art galleries, and cafés.
4. Send a Letter at the Post Office Tree
Mossel Bay is home to South Africa’s first post office, where you can send a letter with a commemorative stamp for free. The Post Office Tree has a long history dating back to over 500 years ago, when a Portuguese seafarer left a letter for a friend inside an old sailor’s boot, detailing his misfortune during his journey at sea. Over a year later, the letter found its intended recipient! Today, the milkwood tree still stands, with a statue of a boot to observe the first post office in South Africa. The ancient tree, declared a national monument, stands on the Dias Museum Complex. The Museum Complex is currently partially open due to construction, and consequently as of May 2023 one can visit the museum free of charge. Certain outdoor features, like the indigenous field garden, the world-famous spring, several large artefacts, the Malay graves, and the Padroa, or Portuguese Cross, are accessible.
5. Marvel at the Christmas Lights
If you are visiting during the warmer months, you’ll notice that the town puts up a magnificent display of Christmas lights. Simply hop in the car or set out on foot once it’s dark and feel the festive spirit of Mossel Bay. A good route is to follow Bland Street, around the Point, and then head up along the bustling Marsh Street, where the twinkling lights are out in full swing.
As you can see, Mossel Bay is your ideal, budget-friendly vacation stop, with loads to do and see for no money. If you are looking for further suggestions, be sure to reach out to our team at De Bakke Santos or ask our friendly team at reception, who will be more than happy to help. Remember, at De Bakke Santos your holiday doesn’t have to break the bank!
